A study carried out at The Queensland University of Technology in 2015 that found that self-diagnosing via the internet was only useful 30% of the time. Meaning that the majority of the time when we self-diagnose, we are dealing with inaccurate or irrelevant information. Yet, a recent study carried out by venture fund Rock Health found that over 50% of us have self-diagnosed in this exact way.

This is often due to the desire for instant answers readily available in the digital age as well as the lengthy waiting times often associated with getting an appointment.

That’s where Health-at-Hand comes in. Health-at-Hand provides straightforward access to medical professionals at just the end of a phone line. They don’t diagnose or prescribe medication, but they do provide medical information and support, the latest information about medicines and illnesses, as well as reassurance and guidance. The line is open 24 hours a day, every day, so there’s always someone you can talk to. What’s more, Health at Hand is offered to all policy holders and will therefore be included in your policy.

So if you lead a busy lifestyle, you don’t need to leave your diagnosis to Google, but instead can get instant access to a qualified medical professional. No waiting lists, no trips to a GP surgery, just instant help, any day, any time!

If you currently have a Health-on-Line policy and would like to contact Health-at-Hand, the number to dial is 0800 003 004. Please make sure have your membership number to hand when you call.

Lorna’s story

Hear from Lorna, a customer at Health-on-Line, and her account of using the Health-at-Hand service:

"Recently, one evening, I found myself looking for reassurance over a fairly minor re-occurring problem. The local pharmacy, chemists and Doctors surgery all were closed until the morning. Impatiently, I debated contacting the NHS on the 111 helpline number – but hesitated as this was not particularly urgent."

"So, remembering my health insurance policy, I decided to dial the number for Health-at-Hand. Feeling slightly sceptical and assuming I would be speaking to someone with first aid training in a call centre, I was pleasantly surprised when I was able to speak to a Pharmacist and a Nurse who advised me of treatments available and also what I could do at home before I ran to the chemist in the morning."

"I was astounded by the helpfulness of the staff I spoke to and immediately felt the value of my health insurance. The Health-at-Hand number is now stored in my phone for future reference, as having access to trained professionals 24-7 is, in my eyes, an invaluable tool."